World Cup facts and figures to get you sounding like an expert

The World Cup trophy on display during the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour outside Truist Park before the Atlanta Braves host the Chicago Cubs in a baseball game, Thursday, May 14, 2026, in Atlanta.(AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser)

It’s the World Cup’s world and we’re just living in it?

At least, that’s how it may feel for the next six weeks. The planet’s largest sporting event has officially begun in North America with a majority of games happening across the 11 host cities in the U.S.

With a record 48 teams and a whopping 1,248 players, there’s an endless number of facts and figures about the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But don’t worry. We’ve gathered some of the top stats to know before you start watching the games.